{"id":117362,"date":"2025-01-11T10:46:29","date_gmt":"2025-01-11T15:46:29","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/lastwordonsports.com\/basketball\/?p=117362"},"modified":"2025-01-11T10:46:29","modified_gmt":"2025-01-11T15:46:29","slug":"early-promising-signs-from-devin-carter-justify-kings-stance","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/lastwordonsports.com\/basketball\/2025\/01\/11\/early-promising-signs-from-devin-carter-justify-kings-stance\/","title":{"rendered":"Early Promising Signs From Devin Carter Justify Kings Stance"},"content":{"rendered":"

Devin Carter\u2019s<\/a> NBA journey began with high expectations. The Sacramento Kings<\/a> selected him with the 13th pick in the 2024 NBA Draft, envisioning him as a key connective piece. The Kings made their stance clear about Devin Carter weeks ago. So far, the signs look promising.<\/p>\n

Early Promising Signs From Devin Carter Justify Kings Stance<\/h2>\n

Overcoming Early Adversities<\/h3>\n

His career got off to a rocky start. Carter missed<\/a> the first 34 games of the season due to a torn labrum in his left shoulder, an injury sustained during a pre-draft workout. During Carter\u2019s absence, the Kings struggled. A five-game losing streak led to the firing<\/a> of head coach Mike Brown, despite his recent contract extension through 2026-27. The front office made a bold off-season move by acquiring<\/a> for DeMar DeRozan<\/a> via sign-and-trade to elevate the team into contention. Unfortunately, this gamble left the Kings in 12th place at the time. Assistant coach Doug Christie replaced Brown, sparking a turnaround. Since Christie\u2019s promotion, the Kings have gone 6-1, and Carter\u2019s debut has added to their momentum. He’s averaging 7.3 points per game on 50.6% true shooting, which translates to a per 36 average of 17.1 points.<\/p>\n

Carter\u2019s Pre-Draft Reputation<\/h3>\n

Carter was a draft steal for the Kings. Kevin O\u2019Connor had him ranked as high as fifth<\/a> on his draft board. Known for his defensive prowess during his freshman and sophomore years in college, Carter experienced an offensive breakout in 2023-24, leading his Conference with 19.7<\/a> points per game. This growth elevated his draft stock, making him one of the best two-way guards in the nation despite his 6’2″ frame.<\/p>\n

Carter\u2019s lateral quickness stood out in college. It allowed him to excel on both ends of the court, navigating screens with ease and defending the perimeter effectively. His ability to thrive in both ball-screen and spot-up situations made him a versatile offensive threat.<\/p>\n

Promising Defensive Tools<\/h3>\n

Carter\u2019s defense has already made an impact at the NBA level. His lateral quickness enables him to guard opponents effectively on the perimeter. He also excels in picking up players full court, disrupting opponents’ rhythm by forcing them into hurried offensive sets.<\/p>\n

Carter\u2019s understanding of when to go over or under screens is impressive. In the Kings\u2019 recent win against the Warriors, Carter\u2019s defensive intensity was evident as he hounded Stephen Curry<\/a>, forcing him into difficult shots.<\/p>\n